Superheavy nuclei and synthesis of new elements

The synthesis of new elements, sitting at the heart of our exploration of the limits of mass and charge of atomic nuclei, is one of the major challenges in modern science. Based on the quantum shell effect, theoretical predictions have been made of an“island of stability”of superheavy nuclei beyond the known“mainland”in the chart of nuclides. Significant progress has been made in exploring this island of stability, with the synthesis of 15 superheavy elements, from element 104 (rutherfordium, Rf) to element 118 (oganesson, Og), so the seventh period of the periodic table is now complete. These superheavy elements have been produced by using heavy-ion fusion reactions, by means of which experiments to synthesize elements 119, 120 and beyond are being carried out or planned. To achieve this purpose and to land on the island of stability, more efforts should be made to study the structure properties and synthesis mechanism of superheavy nuclei. This article presents an overview of the research in this field, summarizes experimental and theoretical progress and challenges, and provides a perspective for future developments.